Home Care and Hospice Care industry Definitions

Skilled Nursing Facility

A facility that is staffed with 24-hour on-site licensed professionals for the care of the frail elderly who require a high level of medical care and assistance. Services include medical care, psychosocial and personal services. Residents typically share a room and take group meals in a dining area unless they are too ill to participate. Activities are also available for those who can participate. Some facilities have special units for Alzheimer’s residents and for short-term rehabilitative stays for those recovering from an illness or accident. (Also called Convalescent Care, Nursing Center and Long-Term Care Facility.)